Page 38 of Love and Loyalty

"Sir?" Drew's voice was weak, barely above a whisper.

General Jackson nodded. "I came to check on your progress, Major. You've been through a lot."

Drew's gaze drifted around the room, searching for Izzy. But she was nowhere to be found.

"Where's Izzy?" Drew asked.

General Jackson's expression turned serious. “Oakley is being debriefed, Major. She'll be back to see you soon."

Drew's eyes locked onto General Jackson's, searching for answers. What did he know about her relationship with Izzy? And why was he here in her hospital room?

But before Drew could ask any questions, General Jackson stood up. "Rest, Major. You have a long recovery ahead of you."

As General Jackson turned to leave, Drew called out, her voice weak but urgent. "Sir, wait!"

General Jackson turned back, his expression stern. "Yes, Major?"

Drew took a deep breath, her heart racing. "My transfer request, sir. I know it's been submitted."

General Jackson nodded, his eyes narrowing. "I'm aware of the request, Major. But I'm afraid it's been denied."

Drew's eyes widened, surprise and fear mixing in her chest. "Denied, sir? But why?"

General Jackson's expression softened slightly, but his voice remained firm. "Because, Major, I know about your relationship with the Lieutenant Colonel. And I won't be accepting your transfer request."

Drew's heart skipped a beat. How did he know? And what did he plan to do with this information?

"Sir, please?—"

"Major, I've known about your relationship for some time now. And I've decided to take no action as long as it doesn't compromise your duties or the mission."

Drew's mind reeled, trying to process this new information. What did General Jackson want from her?

"But, sir," Drew tried again.

Denied, Major. You're too valuable to this unit to let you go. And besides, I think Oakley would be lost without you."

Drew's eyes dropped, her heart racing with emotion. What did the general mean? And what did he plan to do with this knowledge?

However, she couldn't get any answer as the general instantly left the room, leaving Drew with the feeling that something was off. Why was he here? And what did he want?

As he left, Drew felt a mix of different emotions all at once. Relief, fear, and uncertainty were the topmost. But as she lay there, she began to process his words.

She realized that her secret was out, but instead of being punished, she was being given a chance to continue serving. Not only that, but she was allowed to maintain her relationship with Izzy.

A sense of calm washed over Drew as she understood that General Jackson's decision meant she didn't have to choose between her career and her love for Izzy. She could have both, as long as she kept her professional and personal life separate.

Drew's mind began to race with the implications. She would have to be more careful and discreet, but she was willing to do that to ensure her relationship with Izzy didn't compromise her professionalism.

A small smile crept onto her face as she felt a sense of hope. She could make this work. She could balance her love for Izzy with her duty as a soldier.

As she drifted off to sleep, Drew felt a sense of peace settle over her. She knew that as long as she kept her priorities straight, everything would be okay. She could have her love, her career, and her happiness.

When Izzy walked into the room, she had a warm smile. Drew knew she was ready to face whatever came next, as long as they faced it together.

"What did I miss?"

Chapter Nine